The turf has been cut on the latest phase of a £25.7million upgrade of a Lanarkshire school.

Coltness High, Wishaw, which was built in 1966, is undergoing a two-year modernisation programme.

It will see a new teaching block, reception wing and outdoor sports pitches added to the existing campus.

Councillor Jim McCabe, leader of North Lanarkshire Council, said it would benefit the whole community, not just pupils.

He said: “The significant investment being made, not just in improving the school and its facilities but also in transforming the aesthetic appearance and regenerating this site, will be a benefit to all of the community.”

The first phase of the development began last year, but the second phase of work has now begun.

In the first two phases a new teaching block and reception wing are being built near the existing main entrance.

In the third phase, the existing teaching block will be stripped and reconstructed.

And one new full-size synthetic all-weather, floodlit, pitch and two seven-a-side grass pitches will be created.

Sports facilities will also be used by the public after school hours.

The school, which had 856 pupils last term, will continue to operate in some of the existing buildings and in temporary decant accommodation.

The project is set to be completed in spring 2012 and is being paid for directly by the council, rather than through the Public Private Partnership scheme.

The work marks the latest development in the council’s school modernisation programme, Schools And Centres 21.

That will see up to £250m spent on modernising buildings and erecting new community facilities.

Michael Graham, executive chairman of Graham Construction, which is carrying out the work, said: “On completion, the new school building will provide the latest modern facilities.

“We are delighted to be working in partnership with North Lanarkshire Council to help deliver such an important and much-needed resource.”

There are 10 campus schemes under way across the council area, including five secondary schools, five primary schools and three ASN (Additional Support Needs) schools.

A nursery centre, two community centres and one cultural centre are also being built.

Most of the projects have been new builds, with some a mixture of new build and full refurbishment.

Mr McCabe added: “We have an enviable track record of delivering new schools on time and on budget.

“Our previous modernisation programme saw 24 new schools built across the North Lanarkshire Council area.

“I’m confident this programme will be every bit as successful.”